IMPHAL: In an ongoing rescue operation, the Manipur fire services and state disaster response force (SDRF) have evacuated 220 people stranded by floodwaters in the Heingang assembly constituency, represented by Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh.
The floods, caused by the breaching of the Imphal River embankments and subsequent overflow, have inundated residential areas for a second consecutive day on Wednesday.
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
On Tuesday (May 28), the first day of the floods triggered by Cyclone Remal’s incessant rains, fire service teams used lifeboats to rescue 60 people, including women and children, from the marooned villages of Keikol and Nilakuthi in Heingang.
The operation continued on Wednesday, with another 160 individuals being rescued from the flood-stricken villages of Koirengei Mayai Leikai and Maibakhul in the Imphal East district of Manipur.
Visuals captured firemen navigating lifeboats to rescue stranded residents, including children and women, who had taken refuge on rooftops.
Extent of Flood Damage
In the Manipur chief minister’s constituency, the Imphal River’s overflow at Takhellampam area of Khurai Lamlongbam Leikai Salanthong has caused severe flooding.
The villages of Khurai Lairikyengbam Leikai, Lapham Khunou, Paonamleirak, Kairang, Ahanlup, Kaboleikai, and Nagaram have been submerged.
One resident, Chaoba Meitei, reported that his house was swept away by the river’s strong currents and expressed frustration over the lack of government-provided relief materials to block the flowing water as of Wednesday afternoon.
Government Response and Efforts
Despite the challenges, fire service teams have demonstrated remarkable prowess and professionalism, ensuring immediate relief and rescue for the affected victims.
The ongoing operations underscore the commitment to leaving no stone unturned in safeguarding the lives and properties of the residents amidst the calamity.
As Manipur grapples with the aftermath of Cyclone Remal, efforts continue to provide aid and restore normalcy to the flood-hit areas, with authorities closely monitoring the situation and responding to emergencies.